Delight in the world of gluten free sugar cookies with our easy, no-chill recipe. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a fun afternoon baking session, these cookies hold their shape beautifully and are ideal for decorating.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to gluten-free recipes, this guide will walk you through creating delicious sugar cookies that your friends and family will love.
Why You’ll Love This Gluten Free Sugar Cookies
- No need to chill the dough, saving you time.
- Holds shape perfectly, ideal for intricate cookie cutters.
- Customizable with various decorations from royal icing to sprinkles.
- Soft and tender texture that melts in your mouth.
- Easy to make with simple, accessible ingredients.
- Perfect for gluten-free diets without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients for Gluten Free Sugar Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend
- ½ teaspoon xanthan gum (only if your flour blend does not contain it)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Optional for Decorating: Royal icing or buttercream, Sprinkles, Colored sugar
How to Make Gluten Free Sugar Cookies — Step by Step
- Prepare the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: Add the softened butter and granulated sugar to a large mixing bowl. Beat for about 2–3 minutes, until light and creamy.
- Add the Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, xanthan gum if needed, baking powder, and salt.
- Make the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Roll the Dough: Lightly dust your work surface with gluten-free flour. Roll the dough to approximately ¼-inch thickness and cut into shapes.
- Bake: Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 8–11 minutes until edges look set.
- Cool and Decorate: Allow to cool before decorating with choice of icing and sprinkles.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Gluten Free Sugar Cookies
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best mixing results.
- If dough is too sticky, let it rest for a few minutes to firm up.
- For even baking, use cookie cutters of the same size.
- Do not overbake; cookies should be pale in the center.
Storage and Make-Ahead
- Fridge: Store decorated cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Freezer: Freeze undecorated cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw before decorating.
- Reheat: Not recommended for decorated cookies as icing may melt.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make gluten free sugar cookies for decorating?
Absolutely! These cookies are perfect for decorating with royal icing or buttercream, holding their shape perfectly.
Are these cookies suitable for christmas cookies gluten free recipes?
Yes, they are an excellent choice for your gluten-free Christmas cookie platter, easy to customize with festive designs.
Can I make sugar free sugar cookies with this recipe?
To make them sugar-free, substitute granulated sugar with a suitable sweetener like erythritol, keeping in mind the taste may slightly differ.
What if my dough is too sticky?
If the dough feels sticky, let it sit for a few minutes. The gluten-free flour will absorb moisture, making it easier to handle.
How do I store the cookies to keep them fresh?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze for longer storage, ensuring they’re well protected from air and moisture.
These gluten free sugar cookies are not just a treat but a delightful baking experience. Give them a try and let us know how yours turn out. Share your creations and join our Facebook group for more gluten-free recipes and tips!

No-Chill Gluten Free Sugar Cookies That Hold Their Shape
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend
- ½ teaspoon xanthan gum, only if your flour blend does not contain it
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Optional for Decorating
- Royal icing or buttercream
- Sprinkles
- Colored sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: Add the softened butter and granulated sugar to a large mixing bowl. Beat for about 2–3 minutes, until light and creamy.
- Add the Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, xanthan gum if needed, baking powder, and salt.
- Make the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Roll the Dough: Lightly dust your work surface with gluten-free flour. Roll the dough to approximately ¼-inch thickness and cut into shapes.
- Bake: Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 8–11 minutes until edges look set.
- Cool and Decorate: Allow to cool before decorating with choice of icing and sprinkles.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Refrigerator: Store decorated cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.
- To Freeze: Freeze undecorated cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw before decorating.
- To Reheat: Not recommended for decorated cookies as icing may melt.
Nutrition Per Serving
* Estimate only. May vary based on ingredients used.
